A Family Winter Starts at Shawnee Mountain: Your Poconos Ski Day Trip From Morris County

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When the first cold mornings roll into Morris County, our families start counting down to snow days. One of the easiest ways to make the most of them is Shawnee Mountain Ski Area in East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania. Sitting just off Route 80, this family owned mountain has welcomed skiers and snowboarders for more than 50 seasons, and it makes a natural day trip or weekend getaway for families in Rockaway, Denville, Mount Olive, Netcong and every town along the I-80 corridor.

Getting the Mountain Ready for Snow

The team at Shawnee spends the off season on upgrades to snowmaking and lifts so the mountain is ready the moment temperatures cooperate. Snowmaking covers all 23 trails, which helps the crew build a solid base early, and the season typically runs from early December through March, weather permitting. Keep an eye on the Shawnee snow report as opening day gets closer.

Built for Families and First Timers

Shawnee has a well earned reputation as a place where kids learn to love winter. Little ones can start as young as age three with private lessons designed for them, and Children’s Programs run all the way through age 15. The SKIwee Bowl gives young beginners their own space with a magic carpet, and the beginner area has its own chairlift so new skiers can build confidence before heading up the mountain. The Snowsports School also teaches teens and adults, so the whole family can learn together.

Something for Every Skier and Rider

Once everyone has their ski legs, there is plenty to explore:

• 23 trails spread across 125 acres, with a mix of beginner, intermediate and expert terrain
• The Tomahawk Express high speed chairlift to get you back on the snow quickly
• Two terrain parks for skiers and riders who want to try rails and features
• Weekend NASTAR racing for anyone who wants to test their speed
• Night skiing from Wednesday through Sunday, a great option after school or work

Fun Beyond the Slopes

Not everyone in your crew has to ski to have a great day. Snow tubing is a family favorite for ages four and up, and tubing tickets are sold online. Kids eight and under can head to Mini Monster Mountain for sleds, gliders and a snowball wall right by the beginner area. When it is time to warm up, the on mountain dining options include a full service restaurant, lodge cafeterias, a summit lodge and a spot for coffee and snacks, plus a cozy lodge and firepit for hot chocolate breaks.

Buy Early and Save

Early in the season is the best time to lock in your winter plans. Shawnee offers a range of passes and packages for families:

• Season Passes, including a discounted Junior Season Pass
• The 3rd and 4th Grade Snow Pass for young skiers
• Children’s Program 3 Packs that bundle lessons for kids
• The 3 Pack Pass, which can be shared among family members and is available for a limited time early in the season

Buying lift tickets online in advance can also save you money. Check shawneemt.com for current rates and availability.

Plan Your Winter at Shawnee

Throughout the season, Shawnee hosts rail jams, snowshoe races, demo days and live music, so check the events page as you plan. Making a weekend of it? Browse area lodging and follow @shawneemountain on Instagram for snow updates and photos from the mountain.

Looking for more cold weather fun closer to home? Our guide to ice skating in Morris County covers rinks and public skate sessions, our Christmas tree farms in NJ roundup is perfect for early December, and you can see everything else happening on our things to do in Morris County this month page.